You have three ways to get mobile data abroad. Here is how they compare.
| Travel eSIM | Roaming | Local SIM card | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Set up | Online, before you fly | Nothing to do | Shop or airport kiosk |
| Price | Prepaid, fixed | Often charged per day or per MB | Usually cheap |
| ID needed | No (Avena) | No | Often yes |
| Keep your own number | Yes | Yes | No, the local SIM replaces it |
| Hotspot | Allowed on Avena | Depends on carrier | Depends on plan |
Roaming
Your home carrier lets you use partner networks abroad. It is the easiest option, but daily passes and per-MB charges add up quickly. Check your carrier's roaming rates before you leave.
Local SIM card
Buying a SIM from a local operator is often the cheapest per GB. The catch: you need to find a shop, many countries require a passport for registration, and your home number is out of the phone while the local SIM is in.
Travel eSIM
A travel eSIM is a data plan you buy online and add to your phone without a physical card. Your regular SIM stays in the phone for calls and texts.
With Avena you install one eSIM once and every later plan lands on it. No passport, no kiosk, and plans start on first use.
Tip: turn off mobile data on your regular SIM while abroad, so it does not roam by mistake.